UP: No religious gatherings till August 23

LUCKNOW: Religious, social and political gatherings and processions including during festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Bakrid, Shrawan month and Independence Day will not be allowed with the district administration on Monday deciding to extend prohibitory orders till August 23.
The order, under CrPC section 144, has been issued in view of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. It means that approval of police and district administration would be essential for an event of any nature with gathering of more than five people.
Explaining why it was necessary to extend the prohibitory orders, district magistrate Abhishek Prakash said, “Public life is already affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Anti-social elements might try to vitiate the atmosphere during Shrawan when kawariyan perform ‘jalabhishek’ in Shiva temples, or during festivals of Bakrid, Raksha Bandhan, Janmashtami or Independence Day. Hence, using powers under CrPC section 144, these orders have been passed to maintain peace and harmony and for the safety of public and property.”
Prakash said that there will be a conditional ban on processions, rallies, demonstrations, protests, trade exhibitions as well as social, political and religious events with assembly of more than five people.
“Fairs held in rural areas during Shrawan will also remain prohibited. Traditional processions taken out during religious festivals will not be allowed without permission of the police. Also, no new tradition will be allowed to be initiated on such occasions. No political party will be allowed to hold demonstrations at any public place,” he added.
The DM said that DJs will remain banned during Shrawan. Kanwar committees will have to take permission from district authorities for using any sound amplifier device. The administration may give conditional permission for a specific route and period on the recommendation of the police after evaluating the prevailing circumstances.
The order, Prakash said, is being implemented unilaterally because of paucity of time. If an individual or organisation wants any relaxation in restrictions, a proper application can be moved before Lucknow commissionerate. The authorities will take a decision after hearing the matter.
Anyone violating the order will be booked under section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, he added.